The Dumaguete City Handicapped Association is celebrating the 29th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week on the theme "Kapag May Access, May Success," starting today until July 23.

The annual event said to be the biggest activity involving persons with disabilities in the country, is aimed at raising public awareness about disability, and encouraging citizens to take active responsibility in uplifting the economic and social conditions and recognizing the abilities of PWDs. "Persons with disabilities are among the most marginalized and most neglected in society," Connie Gregore, DUCHA president said, adding that their disability is both a cause and an effect of their lack of access to opportunities.

"Our success depends a lot on whether we are allowed access to education, jobs and livelihood. Unless we are given a chance by society and by the community, we can never really develop on our own. Challenge us but give us the tools to meet that challenge," Gregore added.

Lined up activities include a Mass today at the Dumaguete Cathedral, followed by a parade to be participated in by DUCHA members, children with disabilities from The Great Physician Rehabilitation Foundation and those from schools and other non-government organizations.

Also set are exhibit/information booth at the Quezon Park; essay writing and poster-making contests, and a quiz bowl, with regular children and children with special needs from the different Special Education centers in Oriental Negros; wheelchair racing at the Boulevard; and a wheelchair basketball game at the Foundation University Gym on July 22.

The culminating activity will be the Tayada sa Plaza entertainment program with selected PWDs showcasing their special talents. Other participating groups for this year's NDPR celebration are the Metro Dumaguete Roadrunners Club and the Silliman University Physical Therapy Department.*JG

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